Tehran: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Iran would respond to any US aggression but expressed hope for a diplomatic solution, expecting another round of talks in Geneva later this week.

Speaking to CBS Araghchi emphasized Iran’s right to continue uranium enrichment for civilian purposes and stated that any US attack would justify a self-defense response targeting American interests in the region, rather than US soil directly. He highlighted that previous US strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities had already prompted Iranian missile attacks on the US airbase at Al Udeid in Qatar.

While reiterating Iran’s readiness to defend itself, Araghchi also expressed optimism about diplomacy, stating that ongoing negotiations could lead to a win win agreement. He said Iran was preparing a draft proposal and hoped to finalize key elements during the upcoming Geneva talks.

Meanwhile the Financial Times reported that Iran signed a secret 500 million euro arms deal with Russia in December to acquire 500 man-portable Verba launch units and 2,500 missiles with deliveries scheduled from 2027 to 2029. The deal reinforces Tehran’s military capabilities amid heightened tensions with Washington as both nations maintain a delicate balance between diplomacy and deterrence in the region.